The Lowline Forces of Nature Anti-Gala

October 2017. New York City, Capitale

On Halloween eve, Empire produced the Lowline Anti-Gala for the 5th consecutive year. The annual fundraiser plays a crucial role in the organization’s plan to convert an underground trolley terminal into the world’s first, solar-powered subterranean park on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. This year, the welcomed guests to the historical Stanford White-designed Capitale near the Lowline site, for a Forces of Nature-themed costume party.

Guests were welcomed into a vibrant cocktail reception referencing strong undertones of the elements of water and air. Dinner was served in the grand ballroom, in which over 20 live trees, which had been graciously donated by John Mini, created an ambiance for a moonlit dinner in a forest to symbolize the earth.

The dinner program was hosted by Dan Barasch, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Lowline and board member Marquise Stillwell. The program honored longtime Lower East Side resident and famed actor, Alan Cumming. Dressed as Spiderman, Alan gave gracious remarks about the Lowline’s development and his experience living in NYC. Marquise and Dan also honored Veronica Vasquez, a member of the Lowline Young Ambassadors Program.

After dinner, Marquise, Dan and Alan led the pledge drive to a festive Monster Mash. Energy in the room was high as guests raised over $20,000 for The Lowline in addition to $250,000 in sponsorships and table sales, taking the project one step closer to goal of opening by 2021.

DJ Lina provided music for the party that kept guests on the dance floor in the fiery themed after-party. New York City’s famed fire performer, Flambeaux and his fire dancers lit the room with excitement and awe as costumed guests danced into the late hours of the night.

Empire has been honored to serve as Lowline’s event producers since 2013 and are proud to support the creation of the world’s first cutting-edge underground park.